Confidentiality Policy
Austin Medical Assistant Training recognizes the importance of protecting confidential information, including but not limited to student records, personnel files, financial data, and proprietary information.
Do not post confidential or proprietary information about AMAT students, employees, or alumni. All persons must follow the applicable federal requirements such as FERPA and HIPPA, as well as NAIA regulations. Adhere to all applicable institutional and legal privacy, confidentiality and property policies and laws.
Access Control
Access to confidential information is restricted to authorized personnel with a legitimate need-to-know basis for performing their job duties. Access privileges are granted based on job responsibilities and are regularly reviewed and updated as needed.
Data Security
The school employs physical, technical, and administrative safeguards to protect confidential information from unauthorized access, disclosure, alteration, or destruction. These safeguards may include encryption, password protection, secure storage facilities, and restricted access to computer systems and databases
Confidentiality Agreements
Personnel who have access to confidential information are required to sign confidentiality agreements outlining their obligations to maintain the confidentiality and security of the information entrusted to them. These agreements also specify the consequences of unauthorized disclosure or misuse of confidential information.
Training and Awareness
Austin Medical Assistant Training provides regular training and awareness programs to educate personnel about their responsibilities regarding confidentiality and the importance of safeguarding sensitive information. Training topics may include data privacy laws, security best practices, and handling confidential information in various contexts.
HIPPA
A student shall maintain the confidentiality of patient information. The student shall communicate patient information with other members of the healthcare team for health care purposes only, shall access patient information only for purposes of patient care or for otherwise fulfilling the student’s assigned clinical responsibilities, and shall not disseminate patient information for purposes other than patient care or for otherwise fulfilling the student’s assigned clinical responsibilities through social media, texting, emailing or any other form of communication.
Breach Response
In the event of a suspected or actual breach of confidentiality, the school will promptly investigate the incident, mitigate any potential harm, and take appropriate corrective actions to prevent recurrence. Personnel involved in the breach will be subject to disciplinary measures, up to and including termination of employment.
Student Confidentiality
Student Records
Student records, including academic transcripts, enrollment forms, and disciplinary records, are maintained in compliance with applicable laws and regulations, such as the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). Access to student records is limited to authorized personnel and is provided to students or their designated representatives upon request.
Student Privacy
Austin Medical Assistant Training respects the privacy of students and their families and does not disclose personally identifiable information without consent, except as required by law or in emergency situations where health or safety is at risk.
Confidential Counseling Services
Confidential counseling services are available to students who may be experiencing personal, academic, or emotional challenges. Counseling sessions are conducted in a private and supportive environment, and information shared during counseling sessions is kept confidential, except in cases where there is a risk of harm to self or others.
FERPA Compliance Policy
Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) is a Federal law that protects the privacy of a student’s education records. The law applies to all schools that receive funds under an applicable program of the United States Department of Education. The act requires students to provide their written consent when releasing the following information:
- Social Security Number
- Student identification number
- Race, ethnicity, and or nationality
- Transcript and grade reports
AMAT defines directory information in accordance with the provisions of the Act to include student name, address, telephone number, date and place of birth, major field of study, dates of attendance, degrees and awards received, most recent educational agency or institution attended, and/or participation in recognized activities. Upon enrollment, students sign a form regarding disclosure of directory information.
Students have the right to inspect and review their education records maintained by the institution within a reasonable timeframe. Requests for access to student records should be submitted in writing to the Registrar’s Office, which will facilitate access and provide copies of records as required by law.
Students have the right to request the amendment of their education records if they believe the records are inaccurate, misleading, or in violation of their privacy rights. Requests for amendment should be submitted in writing to the Registrar’s Office, which will review and respond to the request in accordance with FERPA guidelines.
Austin Medical Assistant Training conducts regular audits and reviews of its FERPA compliance practices to ensure adherence to federal regulations and institutional policies. Compliance efforts are overseen by the Registrar’s Office or designated compliance officer, who monitors implementation and addresses any identified deficiencies.
Students, parents, and other stakeholders may submit complaints or inquiries regarding FERPA compliance to the Registrar’s Office or designated privacy officer. Complaints are investigated promptly, and appropriate corrective actions are taken to address any violations of FERPA regulations or institutional policies.
Austin Medical Assistant Training provides annual notification to students of their rights under FERPA, including the right to inspect and review education records, the right to request amendment of records, and the right to opt out of directory information disclosure. Notices are disseminated through institutional publications, websites, and other communication channels.